California lawmakers target 'swatting' prank

SACRAMENTO -- California lawmakers are taking aim at the practice of "swatting," which has sent police on fake emergency calls to the homes of Tom Cruise and other stars.

The Los Angeles Times (http://lat.ms/Yp4qlI ) says a bill announced Wednesday by state Sen. Ted Lieu would permit longer sentences for those convicted of making false police reports. A similar measure was introduced by Assemblyman Mike Gatto.

Lieu says prank reports of violence or robbery at the homes of stars could provoke a tragic accident.

Last week, Beverly Hills police responded to a fake armed robbery call at Tom Cruise's house. Other hoax calls have been made involving the homes of Chris Brown, Justin Bieber, Ashton Kutcher and Miley Cyrus.